Hamburg - Kiel EUROPAs Best: Aiming for 20 stars – enjoyment in its highest form

The Kiel Canal resembles a living ribbon that nestles between Brunsbüttel and Kiel in the Schleswig-Holstein landscape and connects the North Sea and the Baltic Sea. The canal, which is almost 100 km long, is the busiest artificial waterway in the world and shortens the route around Denmark for ships by up to 900 km. Opened in 1895 as the Kaiser Wilhelm Canal, it runs past small villages, idyllic meadows and extensive pastureland. The two locks, which also went into operation in 1895 and seal off the canal against changing water levels caused by the tides or wind-driven waves from the North Sea and Baltic Sea, are considered technical masterpieces.

Welcome to the historic town of Aerøskøbing on the Baltic Sea island of Aerø. With its colourful half-timbered houses, cobbled streets and charming harbour, it looks like something out of a fairy tale. Stroll through the winding streets, discover the old baptismal font in Aerøskøbing Kirke and the historic Hammerichs Hus – small reminders of centuries past. In the former poorhouse, you will find the fascinating Flaske Peters Samling with its elaborate model ships in bottles, telling tales of distant seas. A stroll along the beach past the colourful beach houses rounds off the visit. Aerøskøbing will enchant you with its history, Nordic charm and gentle Baltic Sea breeze.

With its mix of world-famous sights and modern flair, Copenhagen delights every visitor. The Little Mermaid on Langelinie is the city's most famous landmark. The colourful harbour promenade of Nyhavn with its lively cafés invites you to relax, while Amalienborg Palace and Tivoli Gardens amusement park offer a journey through the history and present of the Danish capital. Rosenborg Castle stands magnificently amid well-tended rose gardens, its vaults housing the royal jewels. In addition to its historic buildings, Copenhagen is a paradise for design lovers: the cubic extension to the Royal Library and the Royal Opera House are considered outstanding examples of modern Scandinavian architecture.